Guests say
Rowdens Barn in Dorset receives high praise for its cleanliness, well-equipped facilities, and thoughtful touches such as welcome cakes and dog treats. Guests appreciate the comfortable furnishings, secure garden for pets, and the peaceful location, making it an ideal countryside retreat. The property's play barn and log burner are also highlighted as enjoyable features.
Guests consistently commend the property for its spotless condition, with several reviews highlighting the cleanliness as a standout feature. The property is described as very clean, tidy, and well-maintained.
The location is appreciated for its quietness and proximity to local attractions, although a few guests noted the presence of a nearby road and the lack of a shop within walking distance. Overall, the rural setting is seen as pretty and convenient for exploring Dorset.
The majority of guests find the property comfortable, with positive remarks about the warmth and cosiness. However, a few guests mentioned the sofa and mattress being slightly uncomfortable, which slightly impacts the overall comfort score.
Facilities are highly rated, with guests praising the well-equipped kitchen, play barn, and the inclusion of a log burner. The property is described as having high-quality fittings and being well designed. The secure garden and provision of cleaning products are also appreciated.
The property owners are commended for their thoughtfulness, with several guests mentioning the provision of welcome treats such as cakes, milk, and dog biscuits. While these gestures are warmly received, it is noted that such gifts, though delightful, are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
Rowdens Barn is a beautifully presented, single-storey holiday cottage set in a peaceful rural location on the edge of Winterborne Stickland. Formerly animal housing for the farm, this delightful conversion combines traditional features with a comfortable, well-planned layout, making it an appealing choice for couples, friends or a small family seeking a quiet Dorset escape. Inside, the accommodation is arranged entirely on the ground floor and centres around a characterful open-plan living space, where exposed beams and a woodburning stove create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the year. The kitchen is thoughtfully arranged for self-catering holidays, while the dining area offers a pleasant place to enjoy relaxed meals together.
The sitting area is ideal for unwinding at the end of the day, whether that’s with a good book or simply enjoying the glow of the fire. A stable door leads out to the garden, adding to the cottage’s traditional charm and making it easy to move between indoor and outdoor living on warmer days. There are two comfortable bedrooms, including a king-size double and a twin, both served by a well-appointed family bathroom with a bath and shower over, offering flexibility for guests sharing. Outside, Rowdens Barn enjoys an enclosed, private garden with a lawned area, patio and picnic bench, perfect for morning coffee, alfresco dining or simply soaking up the rural surroundings.
Guests also have use of a larger shared front lawn and a shared on-site games room, complete with a pool table, table football and air hockey, providing entertainment for all ages. Winterborne Stickland is ideally located for exploring the best of Dorset. The nearby market town of Blandford Forum offers independent shops, cafés and riverside walks along the River Stour, while the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provides miles of unspoilt countryside and scenic walking routes. A little further afield, the Jurassic Coast invites you to discover dramatic cliffs, historic seaside towns and beautiful beaches, making Rowdens Barn a well-placed base for a memorable countryside break.
Note: This property is in a courtyard with Refs. 18978, 19285, 905895, 905896 and 905897, together they sleep 28.
Winterborne Stickland is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offering good walks and superb views. Take a visit to the market town of Dorchester, home of Thomas Hardy. Within an easy drive lies the Jurassic Coast with sandy beaches at Weymouth and Swanage and cliff top walks along the South West Coastal Path.
Accommodation
All ground floor.
Two bedrooms: 1 x king-size double, 1 x twin.
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC.
Beamed open plan living area with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburning stove.
Electric heating with woodburning stove.
Electric oven, ceramic hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, TV with FreeSat, DVD, WiFi, selection of books and games.
Fuel, power and starter pack for stove included in rent.
Further fuel can be purchased from owner.
Full bed linen, hand and bath towels for each bed space provided.
Travel cot and highchair on request.
Ample off road parking.
EV charger available, please download the "Pod Point" app for EV charging and payments.
Covered bike storage.
Enclosed, private garden with lawned area, patio and picnic bench.
Further larger shared front lawned area.
Shared games room with pool table, table football and air hockey.
Two well-behaved dogs welcome, dogs to be kept on a lead whilst on the premises due to nearby livestock.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop 5 miles, pub 1 mile.
Note: Please us extensive footpath and farm tracks, and walk carefully avoiding crops
Nearby points of interest
- The Dinosaur Museum
- Poole Harbour
Reviews (67)
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Mark
Beautifully presented property.
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Sally
The speed the owner responded with an argumentative tap was impressive. Only slight disappointment, seems dog owners have to be reminded to clear up their "deposits" on the bridleway as it has been years since we have seen such a huge amount of poo on a footpath! Some of which ended up on our shoes. We mentioned this to one of the other "residents" who bizarrely said he didn't walk his dog up the path first thing, but along the road. Hate to say it, I think some of the holidaymakers will be responsible. Shame. Overall we had a wonderful stay, lots to do and see, and helpful stack of leaflets and info in the sideboard, not to mention board games and jigsaws. The enclosed garden was great for the dog - an ideal place for her! I'd suggest all dog owners make sure they take loads of covers and throws.
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Ian
We had a problem.with the TV which leads us to suggest putting a coaxial splitter so guests can screw into the splitter with their own electronic equipment to avoid damaging the connection at the rear of the TV. Very comfortable, liked that we could have used the log burner but it wasn't that cold during our stay. We will definitely stay again ,would like to stay in a different unit. It's ideally situated for where we needed to be in Dorset. Would recommend.